Grade 7 → Acids, Bases and Salts ↓
Preparation and use of salts
In chemistry, the term "salt" refers to a class of compounds that form when acids and bases react together. They play important roles in both natural processes and industrial applications. The topic of salts is essential to understanding chemical reactions.
What are salts?
Salts are ionic compounds composed of cations (positively charged ions) and anions (negatively charged ions), making them neutral overall. The most common and well-known salt is sodium chloride (NaCl), which is widely used as table salt.
Basic properties of salts
- Salts are usually solid and crystalline at room temperature.
- Most salts are soluble in water.
- The colour of salts varies depending on their components.
- They usually conduct electricity when dissolved in water, because of the movement of ions.
Preparation of salts
There are several methods of preparing salt depending on the type of salt and its intended use. Below are the main methods:
1. Neutralization reaction
The most common method of forming salts is through a reaction between an acid and a base. This process is called neutralization.
HCl (aq) + NaOH (aq) → NaCl (aq) + H 2 O (l)
In this reaction, hydrochloric acid (HCl) reacts with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to form sodium chloride (NaCl) and water. Here's a visual example:
2. Reaction of acid with metal
Salts can also be formed by the reaction of an acid with a metal. For example, when zinc reacts with hydrochloric acid, zinc chloride and hydrogen gas are formed:
Zn (s) + 2 HCl (aq) → ZnCl 2 (aq) + H 2 (g)
3. Reaction of an acid with a metal oxide
An acid can also react with metal oxides to form salts and water. For example, copper (II) oxide reacts with sulfuric acid to form copper (II) sulfate:
CuO (s) + H 2 SO 4 (aq) → CuSO 4 (aq) + H 2 O (l)
4. Reaction of an acid with a metal carbonate
When an acid reacts with a metal carbonate, salt, water, and carbon dioxide gas are formed. For example, calcium carbonate reacts with hydrochloric acid:
CaCO 3 (s) + 2 HCl (aq) → CaCl 2 (aq) + H 2 O (l) + CO 2 (g)
Uses of salts
Salts are incredibly versatile and are used in a variety of applications in everyday life and industries. Here are some examples:
1. Sodium chloride (NaCl)
- Culinary uses: It is the most common salt used in food seasoning and preservation.
- De-icing: It is widely used to melt ice on roads in winter.
2. Calcium carbonate (CaCO 3)
- Construction: Used in the production of cement and lime.
- Medical use: An ingredient in antacid tablets for relief of heartburn.
3. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO 3)
- Baking: Acts as a leavening agent to help dough rise.
- Cleaning: Used as a natural cleaner and deodorant for the home.
4. Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate, MgSO4)
- Gardening: Provides magnesium to plants, thereby promoting growth.
- Bath product: Used in the bath to relax muscles and relax the body.
Conclusion
Salts are an integral part of many natural and industrial processes. They can be prepared through a variety of reactions involving acids, bases, metals and metal oxides or carbonates. Each type of salt has its own specific uses that are beneficial in everyday life and industrial applications. Understanding their preparation and use helps us understand the role of chemistry in everyday life.